2001 Conference of
Asian University Presidents
― Towards an Asian Consortium of Innovative Universities ―

On October 4 and 5, Kyushu University hosted the "2001 Conference of Asian University Presidents" following up the First Conference convened last December. Forty-five representatives of twenty-two universities from thirteen countries gathered in Fukuoka to participate in the Conference. 1. Opening Session At the Opening Session on the first day of the Conference, Prof. Dr. Shin-ichi Ago, Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Conference, made the opening declaration. President Yoichi Sugioka then made the opening address welcoming everyone to the Conference: "We should recognize that the words ‘the 21st Century is an era of Asia’ allude to the attractions of Asia from the viewpoint of a market economy. It is a fact that information society is eroding regional values. The idea of this Conference continuing from the First Conference is to indicate the real meaning of the ‘era of Asia’ for the citizens of Asia, and to consider how Asian universities can contribute. This time, in recognition of Asian vitality and diversity, we enlarged the

circle of participants to include local industry and government. I am expecting active discussions between universities and the surrounding society to form a cooperative network beyond nations. With regard to the Network Points that Kyushu University has proposed, we have received positive responses from most of the participating universities. The Network Points is a definite plan to facilitate the exchanges of students and researchers by expanding the existing exchanges from a 'point' to a 'facet.' I hope this Conference will be a fruitful one with active and productive discussions." Mr. Hirotaro Yamasaki, Mayor of Fukuoka City, made a Guest's address as follows: "On behalf of the citizens of Fukuoka City, I would like to welcome all of you to Fukuoka. As Fukuoka City is keen on promoting academic and cultural exchanges with Asian regions, we are very much interested in this Conference that gives us an opportunity to meet the Presidents of prestigious Asian Universities. I hope you will have a meaningful and comfortable stay in Fukuoka."